If you’ve ever worked in a busy warehouse, a shipping yard, or a distribution center, you’ve probably seen or used a yard truck. A yard truck is a specialized type of truck used to move large containers or trailers around the facility, typically over short distances. As the demand for efficient and reliable logistics operations continues to grow, so does the need for high-quality yard trucks. Several manufacturers are competing in the market to produce the best yard trucks for various industries. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the leading yard truck manufacturers and their products.
Top Yard Truck Manufacturers in the Market Today
Yard trucks have become indispensable in modern businesses. These vehicles are widely used for transporting containers, cargo, and other heavy equipment across yards, airports, and ports. If you’re planning to invest in a yard truck, it’s crucial to choose a reliable manufacturer that can provide you with a high-quality product. Here are some of the top yard truck manufacturers in the market today:
Kalmar Ottawa
Kalmar Ottawa is one of the leading manufacturers of yard trucks in the world. This company produces high-performance terminal tractors designed for heavy-duty applications. Their trucks are known for their durability, reliability, and ease of operation. Kalmar Ottawa offers a wide range of models, from 4×2 to 6×4 configurations, and they also have electric-powered options to reduce carbon footprint.
TICO
TICO is a family-owned business that has been manufacturing yard trucks since 1946. Their yard trucks are recognized for their safety, efficiency, and customization options. TICO designs its trucks with the end-user in mind, which means they cater to different industries and specific applications. Their vehicles come in different sizes, power sources, and weight capacities to meet your needs.
Autocar
Autocar is a well-known name in the trucking industry, and they also manufacture yard trucks. Their vehicles boast of being engineered for the toughest jobs and environments. Autocar trucks are equipped with safety features, such as four-wheel disc brakes and air-ride suspension, to ensure smooth operations and minimize downtime. They offer a range of customizable options to fit your business’s unique needs.
Capacity Trucks
Capacity Trucks is another recognized yard truck manufacturer that has been around for over 40 years. Their trucks are designed to handle the toughest jobs and rough terrains. Capacity Trucks offer both diesel and electric-powered yard trucks, and they also have a variety of hitch and weight capacities to choose from. They provide innovative features, such as onboard diagnostics, to ease maintenance and reduce downtime.
Hoist Liftruck
Hoist Liftruck is a family-owned business that has been producing customized yard trucks for over 30 years. Their trucks are engineered for strength, durability, and ease of use. Hoist Liftruck offers unique features, such as their E-Vent system, which reduces emissions and noise pollution. They also provide a variety of customizable options, such as cab configurations and lift heights, to meet your business’s specific needs.
Columbus McKinnon
Columbus McKinnon is a global leader in material handling solutions, and they also manufacture yard trucks. Their vehicles are designed to handle heavy loads efficiently and safely. Columbus McKinnon offers a range of customizable options, such as different cabin configurations and attachment systems, to meet your business’s unique requirements. Their trucks are known for being easy to operate and maintain.
Volvo
Volvo is a renowned global brand that produces high-quality trucks, buses, and construction equipment. Their yard trucks are no exception, and they’re designed to provide optimal performance and uptime. Volvo trucks come with innovative safety features, such as Volvo Dynamic Steering, which enhances stability and control. They offer both diesel and electric-powered options, and their vehicles are built to last and perform in any weather condition.
Hyster
Hyster is a global leader in material handling equipment and solutions, and they also produce yard trucks. Their vehicles are designed to meet the most demanding applications and terrains. Hyster trucks offer superior ergonomics and visibility, making them easy to operate. They provide a wide range of customizable options, such as weight capacity, cab configurations, and attachments.
Daimler Trucks North America
Daimler Trucks North America is a subsidiary of the globally recognized Daimler AG, and they also manufacture yard trucks under the Freightliner brand. Their vehicles are known for their robustness, safety, and efficiency. Daimler Trucks offer a variety of models, from entry-level to high-performance, to cater to different industries and applications. They feature advanced technologies, such as Active Brake Assist, to prevent collisions and ensure the safety of operators and their surroundings.
Terberg
Terberg is a Dutch company that has been manufacturing yard trucks since 1869. Their vehicles are designed for performance, durability, and efficiency. Terberg offers a range of cab configurations, weight capacities, and engine options to meet your business’s specific requirements. They provide advanced features, such as their OptiVision camera system, to enhance safety and visibility for operators.
When investing in a yard truck, it’s crucial to choose a manufacturer that can provide you with a high-quality, reliable product. The above-listed manufacturers are recognized in the industry for producing some of the best performing and innovative yard trucks in the market today. Do your research, consult a reliable dealer, and choose the one that fits your business needs and budget.
Types of Yard Trucks
Yard trucks, also known as shunt trucks or spotting trucks, come in several types. Each type has specific features that make them ideal for certain applications. Here are the most common types of yard trucks:
1. Conventional Yard Trucks
Conventional yard trucks are the most common type. They have a cab and a chassis that supports a fifth wheel for trailer attachment. They can move trailers in tight spaces and are typically used in warehouses and distribution centers. Conventional yard trucks can handle trailers with a capacity of up to 100,000 pounds.
2. Yard Spotters
Yard spotters are designed for use in intermodal yards or rail terminals. They have a shorter wheelbase than conventional yard trucks, which makes them easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Yard spotters can move containers, trailers, and other cargo. They are ideal for use in crowded yards where space is limited.
3. Terminal Tractors
Terminal tractors are also known as terminal trucks or hostlers. They are designed to move trailers and containers around shipping terminals, ports, and other cargo handling facilities. Terminal tractors have a maximum load capacity of up to 75,000 pounds and can handle trailers with multiple axles.
4. Sideloaders
Sideloaders are specialized yard trucks that are designed to transport long and heavy cargo. They have a unique design that allows them to pick up and carry cargo like steel bars and pipes. Sideloaders can load the cargo onto the trailer without the need for specialized equipment.
5. All-Terrain Yard Trucks
All-terrain yard trucks are designed for use in rough terrain conditions. They have a higher ground clearance and wider tires that can handle rough terrain. All-terrain yard trucks can be used in warehouses, construction sites, and other outdoor applications.
6. Electric Yard Trucks
Electric yard trucks are powered by lithium-ion batteries. They are ideal for use in indoor applications where emissions and noise are a concern. Electric yard trucks can handle loads up to 80,000 pounds and can run for up to 12 hours on a single charge.
7. Autonomous Yard Trucks
Autonomous yard trucks are designed to operate without human intervention. They use sensors, cameras, and GPS to navigate around the yard. Autonomous yard trucks can handle loads up to 100,000 pounds and can operate for up to 24 hours without any human intervention.
8. Low-Profile Yard Trucks
Low-profile yard trucks are designed for use in areas with low clearance. They have a lower chassis and cab height than conventional yard trucks. Low-profile yard trucks can move trailers and cargo in areas where height is a concern.
9. Terminal Tractor Trailers
Terminal tractor trailers are designed to move containers and trailers around intermodal yards and shipping terminals. Terminal tractor trailers have a fifth wheel attachment on the back of the trailer, which allows them to move trailers in a shorter distance.
10. Short Wheelbase Yard Trucks
Short wheelbase yard trucks are designed for use in compact spaces. They have a shorter wheelbase than conventional yard trucks and are ideal for use in warehouses and distribution centers. Short wheelbase yard trucks can move trailers and cargo in tight spaces.
In conclusion, there are several types of yard trucks available in the market, each designed to meet specific needs. Choosing the right yard truck for your application can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety.
Types of Yard Trucks Manufactured by Major Companies
Yard trucks are designed to move trailers and containers within the yard, docks, and warehouses. Major companies manufacture different types of yard trucks to meet the specific needs of the businesses. Here are some types of yard trucks and their functionalities:
1. Spotter Trucks
Spotter trucks are mainly used for the movement of containers and semi-trailers within the yard and provide a high degree of maneuverability. They are smaller in size and can easily move around tight corners and can be operated in reverse to position trailers accurately. They can have a lift capacity of up to 80,000 pounds and can be diesel, CNG, or electric-powered.
2. Terminal Tractors
Terminal tractors are designed to move semi-trailers and containers around ports and rail yards. They are capable of handling heavy loads up to 100,000 pounds. These trucks can be electric, diesel, or hybrid-powered and come equipped with advanced safety features. They are also ideal for shuttle operations in logistics and distribution centers.
3. Side Loaders Trucks
Side loader trucks are unique in that they can lift and carry containers or pallets horizontally, making them an ideal option for transporting shipping containers around the yard. They can carry loads up to 30 tons and are maneuverable in tight spaces. They can be diesel, petrol, or electric-powered and come equipped with various safety features.
4. Yard Spotters
Yard spotters are designed to move semi-trailers within congested yards and distribution centers. They are equipped with hydraulic fifth wheels that allow for easy coupling and uncoupling of trailers. They can handle loads up to 50,000 pounds and come equipped with advanced safety features like cameras, sensors, and alarms, making them an ideal option for busy yards.
5. Warehouse Trailer Movers
Warehouse trailer movers are ideal for handling trailers and containers within warehouses. They come equipped with a lift capacity of up to 100,000 pounds and can easily maneuver tight spaces. They can be electric or gas-powered and come equipped with advanced automation features.
| Yard Truck Name | Lift Capacity | Fuel Type | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spotter Trucks | Up to 80,000 pounds | Diesel, CNG, or Electric | Move containers and trailers in the yard |
| Terminal Tractors | Up to 100,000 pounds | Electric, Diesel, or Hybrid | Transport and move trailers around ports and rail yards |
| Side Loaders Trucks | Up to 30 tons | Diesel, Petrol, or Electric | Transport and move shipping containers horizontally |
| Yard Spotters | Up to 50,000 pounds | Diesel or Electric | Move semi-trailers within busy yards and distribution centers |
| Warehouse Trailer Movers | Up to 100,000 pounds | Electric or Gas | Handle trailers and containers in warehouses |
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We hope this article provided some helpful information about yard truck manufacturers. If you’re in need of a new or used yard truck, consider the reliable options listed here. Don’t forget to check back in for more updates and articles on various topics related to industrial machinery. Happy shopping!